UPDATED:

Police continue to investigate the death of a 48-year-old man in Kinloch last night.

The man was found dead by a family member at about 8.30pm, who then called emergency services.

Police believe the man was shot at his rural property, on Whangamata Road, two days ago.

The 38-year-old woman, who was the man's partner and was missing, has now been located at a nearby property safe and uninjured.

Police will be continuing area searches and the scene examination tomorrow.

Police ask for any information from members of the public who may have seen or heard anything in the area last night before 8:00pm.

Anyone with information can contact Taupo Police on 07 378 6060 or report anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

No information on the 48-year-old man's identity can be released at this stage.

A post mortem will take place tomorrow.

EARLIER:

A murder investigation has been launched following the death of a 48-year-old man in Kinloch, near Taupo.

Police believe the man was shot at his rural property, on Whangamata Road, yesterday evening, says Bay of Plenty CIB Detective Senior Sergeant John Wilson.

The man was found dead by a family member at about 8.30pm, who then called emergency services.

Police are at the address today conducting a scene examination.

'We will also begin searching the extensive rural property, which includes several hectares of bush, as part of the investigation.

'Based on initial enquiries, police have concerns for the safety of the man's 38-year-old partner who may have been present during the incident but is currently unaccounted for.”

She was last seen at the address yesterday afternoon and her vehicle is still there.

'Police are keeping an open mind as to where she may be and welcome any information from anyone who saw or heard anything suspicious in the area last night.”

Anyone with information relating to this investigation or the woman's whereabouts can contact Taupo Police on 07 378 6060 or report anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 111 555.

'Police will not be in a position to release the name of the deceased until a post mortem and formal identification process has been completed.

'This is expected to take place tomorrow.”